Solar panel attachment system

ABSTRACT

A method, system and apparatus are disclosed regarding an attachment system for solar equipment, sometimes referred to as a flashing device allowing quick and easy assembling of the solar equipment into an array or other combination in a sturdy and durable manner. In examples of the present technology, a flashing device may include a flashing plate which may contain one or more raised features to further direct and control the flow of liquid over the flashing plate. The flashing device may also contain a fluid restrictor such as a seal or part of a seal usually held within an aperture of a block having a skyward facing essentially or substantially flat surface. One or more various items of solar equipment may be attached to the essentially flat surface of the block. Also disclosed are adjustable mounting feet which may be installed in connection with other solar equipment.

CROSS REFERENCES

This application is a continuation of U.S. Ser. No. 13/673,985, filedNov. 9, 2012, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,756,881, issued Jun. 24, 2014, whichclaims priority to U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/557,821,filed Nov. 9, 2011, and U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No.61/656,230, filed Jun. 6, 2012. The foregoing applications areincorporated by reference in their entirety as if fully set forthherein.

BACKGROUND

Solar panels and related equipment are frequently mounted on supportstructures (such as roofs), or other objects that require asubstantially water-tight or water resistant connection. For example,solar panels mounted on a roof of a building are commonly attached tothe roof via an attachment system that includes one or more flashingdevices that allow a roof-penetrating member, such as a lag screw, topenetrate a portion of a roofing membrane without compromising theroof's ability to prevent water from entering the building.

Prior art attempts to develop such flashing devices have suffered from anumber a drawbacks. For example, some conventional flashing devices donot provide adequate pressure on the seal around the lag screw. Othersdo not allow for a separately positionable bracket that enablesadjustability relative to the lag screw after installation thereof.Others do not work well with rail-free mounting systems such as thosedisclosed in prior art patents and other patents and applications ofcommon assignee and at least one common inventor. Others do not comprisea support portion with multiple holes or slots for connecting bracketsand/or other devices in various positions to allow for connection todifferent locations along a PV module frame. And still others arecostly, do not optimize materials usage, create seals from brittlematerials that have higher failure rates than resilient materials,require expensive manufacturing methods, and/or do not properly accountfor misalignment of components during installation.

The foregoing examples of the related art and limitations relatedtherewith are intended to be illustrative and not exclusive. Otherlimitations of the related art will become apparent to those of skill inthe art upon a reading of the specification and a study of the figures.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

An attachment system, method and apparatus for solar equipment isdisclosed. The following embodiments and aspects thereof are describedand illustrated in conjunction with systems, apparatus, tools, andmethods which are meant to be exemplary and illustrative, not limitingin scope. In various embodiments, one or more of the above-describedproblems have been reduced or eliminated, while other embodiments aredirected to other advantages or improvements.

One embodiment provides an attachment system for solar equipmentcomprising a support portion with an associated fluid restrictor portionand a flashing plate with a raised, substantially flat surface and afastener that extends through the above noted portions, such thatrotation or advancement of the fastener varies an amount of compressionon the fluid restrictor portion.

Another embodiment provides an attachment system for solar equipmentcomprising a support portion, a flashing plate, a variably positionablebracket, a fluid restrictor portion and a fastener which may be used toconnect an assembly of the above noted portions to a support structure,such as a roof.

A further embodiment provides a flashing device for a solar panel havinga support portion having a clearance hole and a threaded hole, a centerpoint of the threaded hole located a first distance from a center pointof the clearance hole and a second distance from a distal supportingportion of the support portion, with the second distance extendingfurther than the first distance, with the first and second distancesmeasured along an uppermost planar surface of the support portion;further with a distal supporting portion located along a second lineextending in a direction between 90° and 180° away from a first lineconnecting the center points of the threaded hole and clearance hole.

In addition to the exemplary aspects and embodiments described above,further aspects and embodiments will become apparent by reference to thefigures and by study of the following detailed descriptions.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Demonstrative embodiments are illustrated in referenced figures anddrawings. It is intended that the embodiments and figures disclosedherein are to be considered illustrative rather than restrictive.

FIG. 1 is a cross-section cut through of an attachment system for solarequipment, such as is shown in FIG. 2, which is mounted on a supportstructure, such as a roof;

FIG. 2 is an isometric exploded view of an attachment system for solarequipment;

FIG. 3 is a section side view of a flashing device similar to the oneshown in FIG. 2 along with a cosmetic screen;

FIG. 4 is an isometric view of a pair of PV modules interconnected toeach other by an interlock, with a leveling foot connected to the frameof one of the PV modules and to a flashing device;

FIG. 5 is an isometric exploded view of another embodiment of anattachment system for solar equipment;

FIG. 6 is an isometric exploded view of yet another embodiment of anattachment system for solar equipment;

FIG. 7 is an isometric exploded view of a further embodiment of anattachment system for solar equipment;

FIG. 8 is an isometric exploded view of another further embodiment of anattachment system for solar equipment;

FIG. 9 is a section side view of the attachment system for solarequipment shown in FIG. 8;

FIG. 9A is an enlargement of the portion of FIG. 8 within the ovalmarked at A;

FIG. 10 is a top view of the attachment system for solar equipment shownin FIG. 8, more clearly illustrating the geometric construction of oneembodiment of a support portion with a cardioid shape;

FIG. 10A is the same as FIG. 10 except different geometry is indicatedrelating to the location of holes and support material;

FIG. 10B is a top view of a prior art flashing device;

FIG. 10C is a top view of the flashing device of FIG. 10A furthercomprising a bracket and showing various positions of the bracket;

FIG. 11 is an alternative embodiment of a flashing plate;

FIG. 12 is another alternative embodiment of a flashing plate;

FIG. 13 is yet another alternative embodiment of a flashing plate;

FIG. 14 is a further alternative embodiment of a flashing plate;

FIG. 15 is another further alternative embodiment of an attachmentsystem for solar equipment with yet another further embodiment of aflashing plate;

FIG. 16 is an inverted view of the flashing plate of FIG. 15;

FIG. 17 is an exploded isometric view of an alternative embodiment of aflashing device;

FIG. 18 is an isometric view of a pair of PV modules interconnected toeach other by an interlock, with a leveling foot connected to the frameof one of the PV modules and to a flashing device;

FIG. 19 is an isometric view of the flashing device of FIG. 18;

FIG. 20 is a section cut of the flashing device of FIG. 18 with lagscrew partially installed;

FIG. 21 is a section cut of the flashing device of FIG. 18 with lagscrew fully installed;

FIG. 22 is a section cut of an alternative embodiment of the flashingdevice in FIG. 18;

FIG. 23 is an isometric view of the flashing device of FIG. 22 from thetop;

FIG. 24 is an isometric view of the flashing device of FIG. 22 from thebottom;

FIG. 25 is a front view of the flashing device of FIG. 22 lookingup-roof;

FIG. 26 is an isometric view of the flashing device of FIG. 8 with analternative embodiment of a bracket and showing a rail and PV modules;

FIG. 27 is an isometric view of a PV module;

FIG. 28 is an isometric view of a PV module mounted to a supportstructure, such as a roof;

FIG. 29 is another isometric view of a PV module mounted to a supportstructure, such as a roof;

FIG. 30 is a front profile view of a mounting foot connected to amodule;

FIG. 31 is a front profile view of another mounting foot connected to amodule;

FIG. 32 is a front profile view of yet another mounting foot connectedto a module; and

FIG. 33 is yet another isometric view of a PV module mounted to asupport structure, such as a roof.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Referring to FIG. 1, and more generally in the other figures wherein thesame reference numerals refer to like components in the various views,there is illustrated a new and improved attachment system for solarequipment, such as but not limited to photovoltaic and solar thermalpanels or modules and ancillary apparatus, generally denominated 100herein. Other solar equipment may include, but not be limited by,thermal solar arrays, electrical equipment, ancillary supporting andconnecting apparatus (such as one or more inverters, wires, conduits,interlocks, feet, snow dams, wind diffusers, cosmetic screens,measurement equipment, and other devices as are known in the art). Whilevarious terms may have their ordinary meaning or particular meaning inthe art, for ease of understanding there is provided herein, both belowand at other locations in this specification, a non-limiting explanationas to the minimum scope intended for understanding of the presentspecification. Terms may be in singular or plural or any tense whileretaining the same general meaning. Photovoltaic is often abbreviated as“PV”. PV laminate refers to an encapsulated group of solar cells. Framerefers to a group of frame members (typically four for arectangular-shaped, including square-shaped, PV module) which supportand provide rigidity to a PV laminate. PV module refers to a single,one-piece, individually deployable electricity generating devicecomprising a PV laminate, a frame, and at least two output conductors. APV array refers to a group of PV modules which are deployed together andare a part of the same electricity generating system. A mounting rail orstrut is a structural member which connects to the bottom of a PV modulevia the use of a separate fastener (such as a bolt, clamp, or the like)and which serves to mechanically link two or more PV modules together,thereby providing structural support for the modules and also providinga means for connection to a mounting surface. An attachment system maycomprise various components that work together to secure or attach solarpanels to a support structure such as a roof, ground mounted rack, wall,vehicle, boat, or building surface. Certain attachment systems mayfurther comprise at least one flashing device that allows attachment toa support structure through a water-resisting membrane withoutsubstantially altering the ability of the membrane to resist waterintrusion. A flashing device may include a substantially flat flashingplate for interleaving with roofing materials (such as shingles, tiles,etc.), a support portion for connecting to a bracket, adaptor,connector, clamp or PV module, a fluid restrictor (such as a grommet,sealing ring, gasket, etc.), a lag screw or bolt, and a washer as willbe described in more detail below.

FIG. 1 is a section side view of an attachment system for solarequipment, sometimes referred to as a flashing device, such as flashingdevice 100 for mounting a PV module, solar hot water module, or othersolar device, to a support surface, such as the decking or rafters of aroof, which may typically be a sloped roof with shingles 110 or tiles110, such as roof 101. Flashing devices are generally composed of: awater shielding, or flashing plate made of sheet metal, plastic, fabric,composite or a combination of materials, or other suitable material(s),such as flashing plate 102, with a hole, or aperture, such as hole 103formed therein; a flashing block, support portion, flashing plate,plate, block, disc, disk, brick, hunk, ingot, mass, puck, slab, lump,stanchion, or the like, (most commonly referred to herein as a “puck”,“support portion”, or “block”) such as block 104, which is mounted ontop of the shielding or flashing plate 102 and may have connectiondirectly to the underlying support structure, such as roof 101, andwhich contains a structure, system or other means to attach otherdevices as by a threaded hole, threaded stud, or the like, such asthreaded hole 105. Block 104 may also have a structure, system or othermeans to fasten block 104 to roof 101, said means possibly including oneor more screws, bolts, rivets, or the like, such as lag screw, bolt orscrew 106 which also passes through hole 103; and a waterproofing means,structure or system to prevent water from entering around screw 106 orthrough hole 103, said waterproofing means being, for example, a fluidrestrictor which prevents fluid from flowing through or beyond an area;such a fluid restrictor may be a formed (including pre-formed) rubber(or similar quasi-solid or semi-solid material) seal, gasket, grommet,sealing grommet, rubber seal, sealant, sealing ring, or the like, suchas seal 107, which may be compressed between flashing plate 102 andblock 104 (shown compressed in FIG. 1). Block 104 (and other embodimentsof support portions or blocks, as disclosed below) has a roofward-facing(opposite to skyward facing) gap, chamber or aperture 108 which housesor retains a fluid restrictor portion, such a portion or the entirety ofseal 107. Block 104 (and other block embodiments) also has a raisedplatform portion with a skyward facing connecting portion orsubstantially flat surface 109 (there may be convolutions or gaps, asshown, in the skyward facing surface 109, so long as the overall globalarea at or near the top of the block 104 provides a skyward facingessentially flat surface). Additionally, a fluid restrictor portion,which may be seal 107 or a portion of seal 107 (or another embodiment ofa seal, or portion of a seal, as disclosed below) is located betweensaid substantially or essentially flat surface 109 and said supportportion, such as roof 101 or flashing plate 102. Further, duringmounting of flashing device 100 to a support surface, such as roof 101,rotation of the fastener, such as screw 106 advances the screw into theroof 101 while rotating or advancing of the fastener also varies anamount of compression of said fluid restrictor portion, such as aportion of seal 107.

A quasi-solid or semi-solid, while similar to a solid in some respects(it can often support its own weight and/or hold its shape), also sharessome properties of fluids, such as shape conformity to another articleapplying pressure to it, or the ability to flow under pressure.Quasi-solids may also be known as amorphous solids becausemicroscopically they may be disordered, unlike traditional crystallinesolids. A quasi-solid or semi-solid is considered intermediate inproperties, (having a viscosity and rigidity intermediate between thatof a solid and a liquid) examples of a quasi-solid or semi-solidsubstance, include putty, gelatin or gel, stiff colloids, siliconerubber, organic rubber, and many deformable plastics/polymers.

Seal 107 is shown having an essentially cylindrical shape, however manyalternative embodiments are explicitly considered, with many shownfurther herein. Some such embodiments include (usually pre-formed)shapes having an essentially flat upper and lower circular surface withan area between of smaller circumference such as shown in essentiallyspool or reel shaped fluid restrictor or seal 207 in FIG. 2; or afrustum (the basal part of a solid cone or pyramid formed by cutting offthe top by a plane, usually parallel to the base (sometimes called afrusto-conical section) which may be oriented with the narrower (smallerdiameter) pointing in any direction) which may have an essentially flatupper circular surface extending with a diameter greater than thenarrower end portion (as shown in fluid restrictor or seal 507 in FIG.2) or without any additional circular surface (not shown) or having aflat upper circular surface extending with a diameter less than thenarrower end portion (not shown). Other fluid restrictor or sealembodiments are shown in FIGS. 8, 9, and 9A at seal 809, seal 508 inFIG. 5, seal 602 in FIG. 6, and elsewhere below.

During installation flashing plate 102 may be installed prior toinstallation of block 104 or along with it as flashing plate 102 andblock 104 in the instant embodiment are separate objects that are onlyconnected via final tightening down of lag screw 106. Other embodimentscontemplate a one-piece design whereby flashing plate 102, block 104,and seal 107 are deployed as a single pre-connected part.

FIG. 2 is an isometric exploded view of flashing device 200, which issimilar to flashing device 100, but which illustrates additionalfeatures and improvements. As shown in the embodiment of FIG. 2,flashing plate 201 may contain one or more raised features, such asridges, embossments, fins, or bumps 202, 203, and 204 to further directand control the flow of liquid, such as water flows down-roof, away fromand around hole 205. It should be noted that bumps 203 may be shapedsuch that water that seeps between flashing plate 201 and block 206 mayescape between bumps 203. Bumps 204 are designed to engage with orcontact the bottom of block 206 so that block 206 cannot rotate withrespect to flashing plate 201. Block 206 is designed such that theinstaller has multiple locations to choose from for attaching a bracket,foot, leg, PV module, or the like to block 206, the benefit of whichwill be illustrated further, especially with regard to FIG. 4 andfurther embodiments. In the present embodiment of FIG. 2, block 206 isshown as an extrusion of aluminum or other rigid or semi-rigid material(such as steel, plastic, composites, or the like) with t-slots intowhich may be slid a nut or bolt head. However, it should be noted thatblock 206 could take any number of forms, including, but not limited to,a die cast or forged block with threaded holes, a stamped sheet metalbracket with threaded studs, a machined block with t-slots 212 orthreaded holes, or the like; with further embodiments of blocksdisclosed below. Flashing device 200 also has an essentially spool orreel-shaped fluid restrictor, grommet or seal 207 with aperture 210 forscrew 209. Grommet 207 may be pre-installed in block 206 with a theroofward-facing portion protruding from the bottom of aperture 220 inblock 206 and the skyward facing portion protruding from the top ofaperture in block 206 (see FIG. 3 as bottom and top of aperture 220 arenot visible in FIG. 2 given the counter-bores as shown).

Block 206 (and other embodiments of support portions or blocks, asdisclosed below) has a roofward-facing (opposite to the skyward facing)channel, gap, chamber or aperture 208 which retains a fluid restrictorportion, such a portion or the entirety of seal 207. In someembodiments, including as is shown in FIG. 2, aperture 208 is shaped toreceive and retain a resilient fluid restrictor portion. Block 206 (andother block embodiments) also has a raised connecting portion with askyward facing essentially or substantially flat surface 209 (eventhough it contains gaps or depressions in the surface). Additionally, afluid restrictor portion, which may be seal 207 or a portion of seal 207(or another embodiment of a seal, or portion of a seal, as disclosedbelow) is located between said substantially or essentially flat surface209 and said support portion, such as roof (not shown) or flashing plate201. Further, during mounting of flashing device 200 to a supportsurface, such as roof (not shown), rotation of the fastener, such asscrew 209 advances screw 209 into the roof while rotating or advancingof the fastener also varies an amount of compression of said fluidrestrictor portion. Assembly of this embodiment occurs by passing theshaft of screw 209 through a preformed hole 220 in block 206, through apreformed hole 210 in seal 207, through hole 205 in flashing plate 201and into a support structure, such as a roof (not shown).

FIG. 3 is a section side view of a flashing device similar to the oneshown in FIG. 2. Flashing device 300 is secured to a support surface,such as a roof (not shown) by advancing screw 309 through block 306 andthrough aperture 308 formed therein to receive and retain a resilientfluid restrictor portion (not shown) and through flashing plate 301 intothe roof. The instant embodiment further includes an ancillary device,structure, apparatus or the like, such as skirt 310 (which may be usedas a fluid (such as air) baffle, for fire protection, for cosmeticand/or other reasons as understood by one with skill in the art) mountedor attached to block 306 by a fastening device, such as nut 314 and bolt316, the head of bolt 316 may be partially or fully contained in t-slots312 fashioned in block 306. In other embodiments skirt 310 may bereplaced by other types of PV system equipment such as electricalequipment, ancillary supporting and connecting apparatus, inverters,wires, conduits, interlocks, feet, snow dams, wind diffusers, cosmeticscreens, measurement equipment, and other solar-related devices as areknown in the art.

FIG. 4 is an isometric view of a pair of PV modules 401A and 401Binterconnected to each other by interlock 402, with bracket or levelingfoot 403 connected to the frame 404 of PV module 401. Leveling foot 403is mounted to flashing device 400, which is similar in form topreviously disclosed flashing devices 100, 200 and 300 with block 406being similar in form to blocks 104, 206 and 306. As can be seen in FIG.4, interlock 402 is in a position that directly blocks, inhibits orconflicts with a potentially desirable position of leveling foot 403(connecting to frame 404 directly above block 206). As PV modules 401Aand 401B may not easily be moved or repositioned, it may be desirable tolocate or place leveling foot 403 in a position that allows connectionto one of the PV modules. In the present embodiment, one or more t-slots412 in block 406 allow leveling foot 403 to be located and connectedtoward the edge of block 406 and avoid being blocked by interlock 402.As with the other described embodiments, block 406 is secured toflashing plate 401 and may be secured to a roof or other support surface(not shown).

FIG. 5 is an isometric exploded view of another embodiment of a flashingdevice, flashing device 500, which is similar in form to previouslydisclosed flashing devices 100, 200, 300 and 400. Block 501 is shown asan aluminum (or other material) extrusion, similar in form to blocks104, 206, 306 and 406, with t-slots 512 oriented parallel to the roofpitch to allow positional adjustment of an attachment or apparatus (suchas a mounting foot, skirt, or other device) in a direction that isessentially parallel to the roof pitch. Multiple t-slots 512 providepositional adjustment in a direction essentially perpendicular to theroof pitch. Other embodiments contemplate directions for slots 512 thatare at an angle other than 90° to the roof pitch. Also shown is yetanother embodiment of pre-formed seal 507, with this version beingessentially a frustum or frusto-conical section, which may be orientedwith the narrower (smaller diameter) pointing in any direction (butherein pointing essentially skyward when mounted to a roof) which mayoptionally have an essentially flat upper circular surface 508 extendingwith a diameter greater than the narrower end portion of the frustum. Aswith the other described embodiments, block 501 is secured to flashingplate 502 and may be secured to a roof or other support surface (notshown) by screw 509 passing through a preformed hole in block 501,through preformed hole 510 in seal 507, through a preformed hole 514 inflashing plate 502, and into a roof or other support surface (notshown).

FIG. 6 is an isometric exploded view of yet another embodiment of aflashing device, flashing device 600 which is similar in form topreviously disclosed flashing devices 100, 200, 300, 400 and 500.Flashing device 600 is provided with only one raised portion or bump 616on flashing plate 601. Seal 602 is designed to fill essentially theentirety of the space between block 603 and flashing plate 601, therebyblocking infiltration of water along the entire length of seal 602.Block 603 is similar in form to blocks 104, 206, 306, 406 and 501, witht-slots 612 oriented substantially perpendicular to the roof pitch toallow positional adjustment of an attachment or apparatus (such as amounting foot, skirt, or other device) in a direction that isessentially perpendicular to the roof pitch. As with the other describedembodiments, block 603 is secured to flashing plate 601 and may besecured to a roof or other support surface (not shown) by screw 609passing through a preformed hole in block 603, through preformed hole610 in seal 602, through preformed hole 614 in flashing plate 601, andinto a roof or other support surface (not shown). Further, block 603 hasa roofward-facing (opposite to the skyward facing) channel, gap, chamberor aperture 618 which retains a fluid restrictor portion, such as seal602 since aperture 618 is shaped to receive and retain resilient fluidrestrictor portion, being seal 602. Raised portion 616 comprises asubstantially flat platform portion 618 for providing a reliable sealbetween seal 602 and flashing plate 601.

FIG. 7 is an isometric exploded view of a further embodiment of aflashing device, flashing device 700. Block 701 is shown as essentiallycircular in top view, but may be any generally regular shape including atriangle, square, rectangle, pentagon, hexagon or other many sidedshapes in top view, and may be die cast or forged, or made in anothermanner. Block 701 may have parallel sidewalls or tapering (either angledinwards towards sunward or towards roofward, or any combination).Flashing plate 702 includes bump features 703 that match the shape ofblock 701, but with an outlet for water to escape at gap 704. In thepresent embodiment, hanger bolt or screw 705 is installed through hole706 in flashing plate 702 prior to installing block 701. Hanger bolt 705is configured with additional machine threads that protrudeperpendicular to the roof surface (not shown). Block 701 containsthreaded hole 707, such that block 701 may be installed on hanger bolt705, rotating until block 701 is in firm contact with flashing plate702. Alternatively, hole 707 may not be threaded, and/or the distal endof hanger bolt 705 furthest from the roof surface may not be threaded,allowing for the upper portion of the distal end of hanger bolt 705 toslide through hole 707. A bracket or leveling foot 710 or other device,such as a bracket (not shown) may then be attached to the remainingportion of screw 705 which extends through hole 707. Block 701 may alsocontain one or more additional, usually threaded, holes (not shown) foralternative mounting locations for aforementioned brackets or levelingfeet.

FIG. 8 is an isometric exploded view of another embodiment of a flashingdevice, flashing device 800 (a lag screw, such as screws 106, 209, 309,509, 609, is not shown in this figure for clarity). Flashing device 800contains block 801, which may be forged, machined, or die-cast, orotherwise formed, though it should be noted that block 801 is of a shapethat is optimized for maximum flexibility at minimum material, which isbest suited for net shape processes such as die casting. Block 801 mayhave parallel sidewalls or tapering (either angled inwards towardssunward or towards roofward, or any combination). The cardioid shapeshown provides optimal flexibility for the mounting of a leveling foot(not shown), such as leveling foot 403 in FIG. 4 or leveling foot 710 inFIG. 7, such that a leveling foot can be located in one or morepositions that avoid a conflict with an interlock, such as interlock402, as illustrated in FIG. 4. Block 801 is shown with 3 locations ofholes 808 on a connection portion 831 that would assist placement of aleveling foot, with suitable space around the hole to permit multipleorientations of the foot placement on the top surface 812 of block 801,as disclosed in further detail especially in relation to FIG. 10; anynumber of holes, such as 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 or other integer number,may be provided and are explicitly contemplated and disclosed herein.Flashing plate 802 includes raised portion or bump 803 to direct wateraround hole 806, and bumps 804 and 805 which engage with gaps (notshown) on the bottom of block 801 to prevent rotation of block 801 withrespect to flashing plate 802. Flashing device 800 is also provided witha seal 809 shown as a half-spool or half-reel shaped fluid restrictor orseal 809. Raised portion 803 may comprise a substantially flat platformportion 820 for providing mating engagement with a bottom surface ofseal 809 at flange 830. Like-shaped, flat surfaces, platform 820 andflange 830, provide an improved sealing mechanism relative to prior artattempts as will be discussed further below.

FIG. 9 is a section side view of flashing device 800 shown in FIG. 8,with a section close-up view at FIG. 9A of seal 809 installed in block801. Seal 809 may be installed into block 801 prior to installation onthe roof. Seal 809 is shaped with a taper such that it can be pushedinto block 801, and the taper fit will prevent seal 809 from falling outof block 801. The interior surface (of the hole) in seal 809 may beessentially the same diameter as or smaller than the shank or shaft ofthe screw 810 which penetrates the seal to permit a snug fit, or theinterior surface (of the hole) in seal 809 may be of a larger diameterto permit ease of sliding the seal over the shank or shaft of screw 810,or some portions of the hole may contact or not contact the shank orshaft of screw 810; but in any case, the assembly operation,particularly the turning or advancing of screw 810 into a supportsurface, such as a roof, will compress seal 809 to form, create orincrease the fluid sealing capability of seal 809. More explicitly, whenseal 809 is compressed during installation and tightening of screw 810,the inward sloping taper 850 may cause seal 809 to compress against theshank or shaft of screw 810 as washer 813 exerts a downward force onseal 809. Such tightening of seal 809 around the shaft of screw 810reduces the potential for water ingress through clearance hole 827 (seeFIG. 10) in block 801. Compression of flange 830 as it is squeezedbetween a bottom surface of block 801 and platform portion 820 offlashing plate 802 reduces the potential for water ingress betweenflashing block 801 and flashing plate 802 then through hole 806 inflashing plate. Flange 830 may have a nominal thickness sized to ensurecompression under varying tolerance conditions and angular misalignmentof components as is typical in the field. It is contemplated that flange830 may have a nominal thickness from 0.050″ to 0.5″ and a fullycompressed thickness as thin as 0.010″, depending on materials used.Seal 809 is shown in a compressed state in FIG. 9A.

Seal 809 may alternatively be configured with an annular ring or disc onthe upper end of the taper, or cylinder, said ring protruding completelythrough the hole to retain seal 809 in block 801. Said ring would becompressed by screw 810 upon installation. Seal 809 is preferably madefrom a deformable rigid or semi-rigid material, such as a semi-solid orquasi-solid, that may form a fluid resistant or fluid proof (the fluidmost commonly being water) seal, such as silicone, natural or syntheticrubber, EPDM rubber, poly vinyl chloride, elastomers, or the like. Asnoted briefly above, the interior surface of seal 809 is shownessentially touching the shaft of screw 810 along the length of seal809, however other alternative embodiments are specifically contemplatedand hereby disclosed, including (a) a close proximity (but not touching)of interior surface of a seal with the shaft of a screw, (b) a touchingat one or more points along the length of the seal's interior, but notall points (such as one or more effective annular ring(s) of touching)such as by a varied diameter of interior surface of a seal (as disclosedin more detail below), and/or (c) an additional compressing into contactor additional or further contact as by rotating a screw, or by advancinga screw into (usually downward) into the support surface, such as a roof(as disclosed in more detail below). While each of the disclosedembodiments of a seal have one or more optional interior surfaceconfigurations (usually a diameter, such as an essentially cylindricalsingle-diameter interior surface shown for seal 809 in FIGS. 9 and 9A,or a multiple diameter seal as shown below) essentially any interiorsurface configurations may be used with any exterior surfaceconfigurations; for example an essentially cylindrical single-diameter(or alternatively a tapered, complex multiple diameter, or other)interior surface may be used with any of the essentially cylindricalseal 107, essentially spool or reel shaped seal 207, essentially frustumshaped seal 507, or any other exterior surface configurations of a fluidrestrictor or seal.

FIG. 10 is a top view of flashing device 800 to illustrate the geometricconstruction of an essentially cardioid shape. Three dashed circles 1000are sketched concentric to the mounting holes on block 801. Circles 1000represent one example of a minimum area required to support a specificbracket or leveling foot, such as leveling foot 403, to a given loadvalue in a specific range of desired mounting positions. Otherembodiments contemplate various brackets, fasteners, positions, and loadvalues, therefore such other embodiments may have a minimum area circledifferent from circle 1000. However, flashing device 800, in general,contemplates the provision of substantially more distal support materialaround mounting holes 808 than prior art systems, as will be discussedbelow. As can be seen in FIG. 10, the cardioid shape approximately fitscircles 1000. This geometric analysis is used to optimize the materialused in the block, which can yield significant cost savings when using amaterial-additive process such as die casting.

FIGS. 10A, 10B, and 10C provide further analysis regarding thestructural optimization of flashing device 800. FIG. 10A shows how alength A of a line 875 from a mounting hole 808 center point to a centerpoint of clearance hole 827 is less than a length B of a line 876 fromthe same mounting hole 808 to a distal supporting portion 877. Theincreased distal supporting material on the substantially flat,uppermost planar surface 878 of block 802 provides a significantincrease in the load bearing capability of block 802 and, in general, inthe load bearing capability of a solar panel or array connected to block801 via a bracket connected to mounting hole 808 since the bracket, suchas an L-bracket or a leveling foot 403, may have less materialcantilevered off of the edge of block 801. One skilled in the art willrecognize that line 876 may be drawn anywhere from 90 to 180 degrees, or−90 to −180 degrees, away from line 875 and still be longer than line875. However, as shown in FIG. 10B, prior art flashing devices 898comprise blocks 899 with significantly less support material distal tomounting holes 882. Line 880 with length C is clearly longer than line881 with length D.

FIG. 10C further underscores the advantage of additional distal supportmaterial on support surface 878. A bottom portion of a bracket or foot861 is shown in a top section view cut just above a lower portion ofbracket 861 (fasteners are not shown for clarity). Bracket 861 is shownin dashed line for various alternate positions. One skilled in the artwill recognize that bracket 861 is well supported in many differentpositions on block 801. Such positional flexibility may be veryadvantageous when mounting solar panels on a roof since roof conditionsvary and, as discussed earlier, it may be required to avoid othersystems components at times.

FIG. 11 is an alternative embodiment of a flashing plate, flashing plate1100, with bump or raised portion 1101, which is configured to providewater routing and anti-rotation of an associated block (not shown) witha single bump feature.

FIG. 12 is another alternative embodiment of a flashing plate, flashingplate 1200, similar to flashing plate 201 in FIG. 2.

FIG. 13 is yet another alternative embodiment of a flashing plate,flashing plate 1300, similar to flashing plate 201 in FIG. 2.

FIG. 14 is a further alternative embodiment of a flashing plate,flashing plate 1400, similar to flashing plate 201 in FIG. 2, butwithout the up-roof water routing bump. Instead, the associated block(not shown) effectively blocks the flow of water from up-roof todown-roof, and routes the water around the block.

FIG. 15 is another further alternative embodiment of an attachmentsystem for solar equipment with yet another further embodiment of aflashing plate.

FIG. 16 is an inverted view of the attachment system for solar equipmentof FIG. 15 showing underside detail of the flashing plate of FIG. 15.

FIGS. 17-21 show an embodiment of an attachment system comprising aflashing device 900. Flashing device 900 is similar to flashing device800 and others described herein. FIG. 17 provides an isometric explodedview of another embodiment of a flashing device, flashing device 900.Flashing device 900 contains block 901, which may be forged, machined,or die-cast, or otherwise formed, though it should be noted that block901 is of a shape that is optimized for maximum flexibility at minimummaterial, which is best suited for net shape processes such as diecasting. The essentially cardioid shape shown provides optimalflexibility for the supporting of brackets as described above withreference to block 801. Block 901 is shown with 5 locations of holes 908located on connecting portion 979 that would assist placement of abracket or leveling foot, such holes being optimally placed to supportbrackets similar to holes 808 in block 801. Flashing plate 902 includesraised portion or bump 903 to direct water around hole 906, and bumps904 and 905 which engage with gaps 955 on the bottom of block 901 toresist rotation of block 901 with respect to flashing plate 902 whenrotating screw 910. Flashing device 900 is also provided with a seal 909as discussed below. Raised portion 903 may comprise a substantially flatplatform portion 920 for providing mating engagement with a bottomsurface of seal 909 at flange 930. Arrow 956 indicates how fluid flowingdown-roof is guided around hole 906 by raised portion 903.

FIG. 18 is an isometric view of a pair of PV modules 901A and 901Binterconnected to each other by an interlock 961, with a bracket orleveling foot 968 connected to the frame 957 of PV module 901B. Levelingfoot 968 is mounted to block 901 via fastener 963. One skilled in theart will recognize that this method of connecting block 901 to bracket968 still provides a similar amount of lateral flexibility as block 206in FIG. 4 and block 501 in FIG. 5 since the t-slot, such as t-slot 512as shown in block 501 in FIG. 5, has been replaced by discretely placedholes 908 and a slot 964 in leveling foot 968. As can be seen in FIG. 18(and similar to FIG. 4), interlock 961 is in a position that directlyblocks, inhibits or conflicts with a potentially desirable position ofleveling foot 968 (connecting to frame 957 directly above block 901),yet leveling foot 969 may still be connected to frame 957 as shown dueto the enhanced lateral flexibility and improved distal support providedby block 901. One skilled in the art will also recognize that holes 908are distributed laterally relative to the x-axis and up/down roofrelative to the y-axis. Y-axis displacement of holes 908 simplifiesinstallation since it allows flashing devices 900 to be roughly lined upon roof without time spent getting them perfectly straight.

FIG. 19 is an isometric view of flashing device 900 looking down-roof.Flashing device 900 is shown here with lag screw 900 fully tighteneddown and connected to a structural support (not shown).

FIG. 20 shows as section cut of flashing device 900 as indicated in FIG.19. In this view screw 910 is partially installed but not yet applyingforce downward on block 901. Block 901 is lightly resting on top offlashing plate 902 with seal 909 just beginning to touch platform 920and therefore under very little vertical compression. Seal 909 has,however, already been pre-installed into aperture 927 in block 901 bysqueezing resilient seal 909 and pressing it into aperture 927. Aperture927 may comprise an annular flange 928 that mates with a similarlyshaped depression in seal 909, except seal 909 is slightly larger andthus the spring force of seal 909 is pushing outward in FIG. 20 and thusenabling block 901 to retain seal 909 without requiring the tighteningof screw 910 into structural member 931. Other embodiments contemplatedifferent shapes for seal 909 and aperture 927, but in the instantembodiment block 901 is designed to retain seal 909 and to allowpre-installation of seal 909 before flashing device 900 is installed ona roof.

FIG. 20 further reveals sloping portion at the top of flange 928 and agap 929 between seal 909 and screw 910 as will be discussed below. Notehow gap 929 runs most of the height of seal 900 except a small portionat the top where seal 909 is contacting screw 910 in the nominal state.This small contacting portion ensures that the seal is always touchingat the top when under load. Seal 909 is also shown comprising an outwardangled finger 932. The outward angle of finger 932 helps to ensure thatseal expands outward when being compressed. Seal 909 also comprises anupper portion 933 that rest slightly above the bottom of counterbore 934in block 901.

FIG. 21 shows the same section cut as FIG. 20 except that screw 910 hasnow been fully tightened into structural member 931. Washer 913 is nowshown having pushed seal 909 downward until washer 913 is stopped bybottom of counterbore 934. The downward force exerted by washer on seal909 forces seal 909 to flow downward in inward toward screw 910 as it isforced down slope 932. Gap 929 has now been taken up by seal 909 as seal909 is forced to squeeze screw 910 along the whole length of seal 909,substantially enhancing the water-resisting properties of seal 909.Bottom flange 930 of seal 909 has been significantly compressed andmaterial has flowed outward further filling the gap between the bottomsurface of block 901 and the platform 920 of flashing plate 902.

FIG. 21 further reveals an advantage of counterbore 934. Counter bore934 allows brackets, leveling feet, PV modules, and other devices to beplaced substantially anywhere on top of block 901 without hitting screw910 or touching seal 909. Such an arrangement provides great flexibilityto position the bracket in the optimum place to handle loads and/orconnect to other devices.

FIGS. 22-25 show another embodiment of a flashing device, flashingdevice 1700, which is similar to flashing device 900 except that seal909 has been replaced with seal 1709. Seal 1709 is similar to seal 909except that side walls of seal 1709 comprise an inward, then outwardtaper for easier insertion of seal. Block 1701 further provides drainholes 1789 to allow water that enters beneath the upper edge of block1701 to escape. FIG. 24 shows the underside of flashing device 1700revealing pocket 1788 underneath a raised portion. Pocket 1788 may befilled with sealant or caulk (not shown) to further enhancewaterproofing of flashing 1700. FIG. 25 provides an end view lookingup-roof.

FIG. 26 shows an isometric view of flashing device 800 with an alternatebracket, bracket 1876. Bracket 1876 is connected to a hole 808 in block801 in the usual way, then the upper portion of bracket 1876 isconnected to a strut or rail 1869 as are commonly used in solar mountingsystems. PV modules 1850A and 1850B are connected to rail 1869 in one ofthe common ways known in the art (not shown).

FIG. 27 shows a photovoltaic module 2000 assembled with a laminate 2002surrounded by aluminum frames 2001 that may contain a female groovefeature 2003 located on the outside surface 2004 of the frame. Asdescribed in previous patents and pending applications of commonassignment and at least one common inventor (including, withoutlimitation: U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,592,537 and 8,109,048; U.S. patentapplication Ser. Nos. 12/594,935, 13/351,397, 13/370,612, 13/405,118,13/405,118, 13/407,607, 13/410,149, 13/413,329, 13/415,669, 13/415,669,13/421,797, 13/434,420, 13/434,426, 13/489,680, and 13/491,436 which areincorporated by reference in their entirety as if fully set forthherein.), the groove geometry present in such frames allows for direct(or indirect) attachment of PV, solar-thermal, or other modules to arooftop or other structure by use of height adjustable mounting feetthat may install to or partially within the groove feature 2003,therefore eliminating the need for structurally redundant aluminum (orother structural material) extrusions, castings, assemblies, or railsthat are commonly used for residential PV installations in order tocreate a substantially planar mounting surface above rooftops.

The required quantity and spacing of mounting feet is traditionally afunction of the code estimated wind and snow loading pressures that a PVor other module will be subjected to based, in part, on availableinstallation site location data (usually including one or more of: windspeed, category, ground snow load, etc.). Upload or upward forces(direction illustrated in FIG. 32) on a module are usually at leastpartially the result of wind loading pressures, whereas download ordownward forces (direction illustrated in FIG. 31) on a module areusually at least partially the result of combined wind and snow loading.The downward force(s) on a module due to the contribution of wind/snowpressures is often greater than the upload force(s) due to wind loadingpressures in regions where snow loads are common. In addition, shearforce failure of the fasteners used to secure the mounting feet to aroof top or structure due, for example, to combinations of wind/snowloading may also govern the required quantity and spacing of mountingfeet.

In general, it is considered desirable to minimize the number ofpenetrations into a roof or other structure that are required topositively attach a mounting foot to a surface through the use of commonfasteners (for example, to minimize locations where fluid leakage maycompromise the integrity of the roof or other support surface).Applicants hereby disclose novel ways of minimizing the number ofrequired penetrations to enable rapid, safe, economical and reliableinstallations of PV and other modules and arrays.

FIG. 28 shows an array of photovoltaic modules 2000 mounted to a rooftopsurface 2005 with height adjustable mounting feet 2006 installed atleast partially into the female frame groove feature 2003 at discretespaced interval distances. The interval distance between the mountingfeet 2006 is spaced such that unintentional removal of modules due towind loading uplift forces is minimized or prevented, as well asexcessive deflection in the photovoltaic modules 2000 and shear loadingin attachment fasteners is also minimized, prevented or compensated for.In the array shown in FIG. 28 the down force loading is the governingfactor determining the required quantity and spacing of mounting feet.The mounting feet 2006 are positively attached to a rooftop flashingblock 2007, as through the use of common threaded fasteners, or othermeans, structures or systems known in the art. The rooftop flashingblock 2007 is in turn positively attached to the support surface, suchas the surface of roof 2005 and underlying rafters 2011 through the useof common threaded lag fasteners, bolts, screws or the like (not shown).Thus, the installation of each (or at least most of the plurality of)mounting foot 2006 shown in FIG. 28 results in a penetration to the topsurface of rooftop 2005, which must be sealed in a manner to preventwater or other fluid ingress into the roof decking, such as by the useof a flashing device 2007 as discussed above.

FIG. 29 shows a similar photovoltaic array as depicted in FIG. 28,except this array is mounted to roof 2005 using a combination ofmounting feet 2006 with some positively attached to a flashing block2007, and others attached to a complaint spring base 2008, essentiallyforming a “dummy” foot, or non-penetrating substitute for a standard,positively attached flashing device. The quantity and spacing ofmounting feet 2006 is once again governed by a combination wind/snowdown force loading. All mounting feet 2006 attached to a flashing block2007 require a penetration into the roof 2005. Mounting feet 2006attached to a compliant spring base 2008 may not require a penetration,as the spring base 2008 rests on top of the roof 2005 and may not berequired to be positively attached to the rooftop 2005, as with a lagscrew or other common fastener, since a mounting foot 2006 at thislocation may only be required to handle downward loads and not upwardloads. It is, for example, possible for a PV installation at a specificlocation to have more need to resist or spread downward forces than toresist of spread upward forces.

FIG. 30 shows a height adjustable mounting foot 2006 installed into aframe groove feature 2003 and mounted to a compliant spring base 2008.The module frame 2001 shown in FIG. 30 is shown as not undergoing anydeflection due to uplift or down loading on the module 2000 and thecompliant spring base 2008 may therefore be in a slightly compressedstatic state, as illustrated.

FIG. 31 shows the compliant spring base 2008 in a further compressedstate due to combination wind/snow loading down force pressure on module2000 which results in downward deflection of the frame 2001. By allowingthe compliant spring base 2008 to compress and transfer the moduleloading to the rooftop surface, the point loading of one or morepositively attached mounting feet 2006 affixed to the flashing blocks2007 is reduced, resulting in a more even, distributed loading to theroof structure with less overall penetrations required.

FIG. 32 shows compliant spring base 2008 in an extended state, such asdue to wind uplift loading pressure on the module 2010 which results inupward deflection of the module frame 2001. Compliant spring base 2008may be designed so that it does not reach a fully un-sprung state undermaximum uplift, such that the bottom of the spring base 2008 should notlift off the roof surface 2005, thus acting to dampen cyclic vibrationstransmitted to the roof, as during windy events. Adhesives, mechanicalfasteners and other means of positive attachment may also be employed toprevent or inhibit the spring material from lifting off the roofsurface, such as may be due to wind uplift forces.

Embodiments of the compliant spring base 2008, as shown in FIGS. 29-32,may be comprised of a relatively soft resistant foam or rubber typematerial, which may also be resistant to environmental damage, such asultraviolet (UV) and/or water resistance. Drainage features such asgrooves or channels may be added to any surface or interior, such asaddition to a bottom surface of the spring base 2008, in order to allowfor accumulated moisture (such as due to rain, etc.) to drain from theroof/base interface. Alternate embodiments of the spring base 2008 maybe manufactured from spring steel, aluminum, plastics, metal, or anyother suitable springy or resilient material(s).

FIG. 33 shows yet another alternate embodiment of a spring base 2009that is constructed of metal, plastic or other suitable resilient orspring material. While the embodiments shown include variations ofutilizing a compliant spring base beneath a mounting foot, such aspringy type unit, structure, system, or means may be used otherwise inassociation with a mounting foot, as would be apparent to one of skillin the art, and are hereby specifically contemplated and disclosed.

Some advantages of utilizing a compliant spring base beneath orotherwise in association with a mounting foot may include, but are notlimited to, that it may enable reduction in total number of rooftoppenetrations required for a photovoltaic module installation, and thus areduction in flashing devices, while still preventing excessivedeflection in a module due to down force combination loading fromwind/snow; may enable reduction in total installation time due to areduced number of rooftop penetrations requiring sealing to preventmoisture ingress; may enable reduction in total installation materialcosts due to less flashing devices being required per module installed;may enable mounting feet to be placed in locations on roof where raftersare not located; and may enable dampening of wind induced arrayvibrations being transferred to the underlying structure.

Advantages of the flashing devices disclosed herein may include:improved pressure on the seal around the lag screw; increased mountinglocation flexibility due to separately positionable bracket that enablesadjustability relative to the lag screw after installation thereof; maywork better with many rail-free mounting systems since the eliminationof rails may result in less flexibility in locating certain mountingcomponents and the instant flashing devices comprise multiple holes orslots for connecting to different locations along a PV module frame;reduced cost due to optimization of materials usage; and improvedability to account for misalignment of components during installation.

While a number of exemplary aspects and embodiments have been discussedabove, those of skill in the art will recognize certain modifications,permutations, additions and sub-combinations thereof. It is thereforeintended that the following appended claims and claims hereafterintroduced be interpreted to include all such modifications,permutations, additions, and sub-combinations as are within their truespirit and scope.

What is claimed as invention is:
 1. An attachment system for solarequipment, comprising: (a) a flashing plate having a raised portion witha fastener aperture passing therethrough; (b) a support body having afastener aperture passing therethrough, the support body having a flatupper mounting surface with a plurality of mounting holes formedtherein, each mounting hole being adapted for a mounting device to beconnected thereto such that the mounting device can be positioned indifferent rotational orientations on the flat upper mounting surfaceabout an axis perpendicular to the flashing plate; (c) a fluidrestrictor positioned between the flashing plate and the support body,the fluid restrictor having a fastener aperture passing therethrough;and (d) a fastener passing through the fastener apertures in theflashing plate, support body and fluid restrictor, wherein rotating oradvancing the fastener varies the amount of compression on the fluidrestrictor, and wherein the number of mounting holes in the support bodyis greater than the number of fasteners passing through the flashingplate, support body and fluid restrictor.
 2. The attachment system ofclaim 1, wherein one of the mounting holes is positioned uproof fromanother mounting hole.
 3. The attachment system of claim 1, wherein oneof the mounting holes is positioned laterally offset from anothermounting hole.
 4. The attachment system of claim 1, wherein a pair ofthe mounting holes are positioned on opposite sides of the fastener. 5.The attachment system of claim 1, further comprising: (e) a mountingdevice, wherein the mounting device is attached into any one of themounting holes and rotated about a vertical axis passing through themounting hole to a desired installed position on the flat upper mountingsurface of the support body.
 6. The attachment system of claim 1,wherein the support body has a cardioid shape.
 7. The attachment systemof claim 1, wherein the distance from a first mounting hole to thefastener aperture in the support body is less than the distance from thefirst mounting hole to a side edge of the support body.
 8. Theattachment system of claim 1, further comprising: (e) a mounting device,wherein the mounting device extends substantially the same cantilevereddistance from a side edge of the upper mounting surface of the supportbody when the mounting device is rotated between first and secondpositions that are less than 180 degrees apart.
 9. An attachment systemfor solar equipment, comprising: (a) a flashing plate having a raisedportion with a fastener aperture passing therethrough; (b) a supportbody having a fastener aperture passing therethrough, the support bodyhaving a flat upper mounting surface with a plurality of mounting holesformed therein, each mounting hole being adapted for a mounting deviceto be connected thereto such that the mounting device can be positionedin different rotational orientations on the flat upper mounting surfaceabout an axis perpendicular to the flashing plate; (c) a fluidrestrictor positioned between the flashing plate and the support body,the fluid restrictor having a fastener aperture passing therethrough;and (d) a fastener passing through the fastener apertures in theflashing plate, support body and fluid restrictor, wherein rotating oradvancing the fastener varies the amount of compression on the fluidrestrictor, wherein the fastener aperture passing through the supportbody is recessed from the flat upper mounting surface of the supportbody such that the mounting device can be rotated to an installedposition directly above the fastener.
 10. An attachment system for solarequipment, comprising: (a) a flashing plate having a raised portion witha fastener aperture passing therethrough; (b) a support body having afastener aperture passing therethrough, the support body having a flatupper mounting surface with a plurality of mounting holes formedtherein, each mounting hole being adapted for a mounting device to beconnected thereto such that the mounting device can be positioned indifferent rotational orientations on the flat upper mounting surfaceabout an axis perpendicular to the flashing plate; (c) a fluidrestrictor positioned between the flashing plate and the support body,the fluid restrictor having a fastener aperture passing therethrough;and (d) a fastener passing through the fastener apertures in theflashing plate, support body and fluid restrictor, wherein rotating oradvancing the fastener varies the amount of compression on the fluidrestrictor, wherein a side edge of the upper mounting surface of thesupport body is curved around a first mounting hole.
 11. An attachmentsystem for solar equipment, comprising: (a) a flashing plate having araised portion with a fastener aperture passing therethrough; (b) asupport body with an upper mounting surface having a plurality ofmounting holes formed therein, each of the mounting holes being for amounting device to be connected thereto such that the mounting devicecan be positioned at different rotational orientations on the flat uppermounting surface about an axis perpendicular to the flashing plate, thesupport body having a fastener aperture passing therethrough; (c) afluid restrictor positioned between the flashing plate and the supportbody, the fluid restrictor having a fastener aperture passingtherethrough; and (d) a fastener passing through the fastener aperturesin the flashing plate, support body and fluid restrictor, whereinrotating or advancing the fastener varies the amount of compression onthe fluid restrictor, and wherein the number of mounting holes in thesupport body is greater than the number of fasteners passing through theflashing plate, support body and fluid restrictor.
 12. The attachmentsystem of claim 11, wherein the plurality of attachment locations aremounting holes.
 13. The attachment system of claim 12, furthercomprising: (e) a mounting device, wherein each mounting hole isthreaded to receive a bolt connecting the mounting device onto the uppermounting surface of the support body.
 14. The attachment system of claim11, wherein one of the mounting locations is positioned uproof fromanother mounting feature.
 15. The attachment system of claim 11, whereinone of the mounting locations is positioned laterally offset fromanother mounting feature.
 16. The attachment system of claim 11, whereina pair of the mounting locations are positioned on opposite sides of thefastener.
 17. The attachment system of claim 11, further comprising: (e)a mounting device, wherein the mounting device is attached to any one ofthe attachment locations in the upper mounting surface of the supportbody and rotated about a vertical axis passing through the attachmentlocations to a desired installed position on the flat upper mountingsurface of the support body.
 18. The attachment system of claim 11,wherein the distance from a first attachment location to the fasteneraperture in the support body is less than the distance from the firstattachment feature to a side edge of the support body.
 19. Theattachment system of claim 11, wherein a side edge of the upper mountingsurface of the support body is curved around a first mounting hole. 20.The attachment system of claim 11, wherein the mounting device extendssubstantially the same cantilevered distance from a side edge of theupper mounting surface of the support body when the mounting device isrotated between first and second positions that are less than 180degrees apart.
 21. The attachment system of claim 11, furthercomprising: a mounting device attached onto the upper mounting surfaceof the support body.
 22. The attachment system of claim 21, wherein themounting device is a leveling foot.
 23. The attachment system of claim21, wherein the mounting device is a mounting bracket.
 24. Theattachment system for solar equipment of claim 11, wherein the pluralityof attachment locations comprises a slot into which the mounting devicecan be attached thereto in multiple locations.
 25. An attachment systemfor solar equipment, comprising: (a) a flashing plate having a raisedportion with a fastener aperture passing therethrough; (b) a supportbody with an upper mounting surface having a plurality of attachmentfeatures formed therein, each of the attachment features being for amounting device to be connected thereto such that the mounting devicecan be positioned at different rotational orientations on the flat uppermounting surface about an axis perpendicular to the flashing plate, thesupport body having a fastener aperture passing therethrough; (c) afluid restrictor positioned between the flashing plate and the supportbody, the fluid restrictor having a fastener aperture passingtherethrough; and (d) a fastener passing through the fastener aperturesin the flashing plate, support body and fluid restrictor, whereinrotating or advancing the fastener varies the amount of compression onthe fluid restrictor, wherein the fastener aperture passing through thesupport body is recessed from the upper mounting surface of the supportbody such that the mounting device can be rotated to an installedposition directly above the fastener.
 26. An attachment system for solarequipment, comprising: (a) a flashing plate having a raised portion witha fastener aperture passing therethrough; (b) a support body with anupper mounting surface having a plurality of attachment features formedtherein, each of the attachment features being for a mounting device tobe connected thereto such that the mounting device can be positioned atdifferent rotational orientations on the flat upper mounting surfaceabout an axis perpendicular to the flashing plate, the support bodyhaving a fastener aperture passing therethrough; (c) a fluid restrictorpositioned between the flashing plate and the support body, the fluidrestrictor having a fastener aperture passing therethrough; and (d) afastener passing through the fastener apertures in the flashing plate,support body and fluid restrictor, wherein rotating or advancing thefastener varies the amount of compression on the fluid restrictor,wherein the support body has a cardioid shape.
 27. An attachment systemfor solar equipment, comprising: (a) a flashing plate having a raisedportion with a fastener aperture passing therethrough; (b) a supportbody with an upper mounting surface having at least one attachmentfeature formed therein, and a downwardly inwardly tapered fasteneraperture passing therethrough; (c) a fluid restrictor positioned betweenthe flashing plate and the support body, the fluid restrictor having:(i) a fastener aperture passing therethrough, (ii) an upper annular ringpositioned above the downwardly inwardly tapered fastener aperture inthe support body, (iii) a downwardly inwardly tapered portion receivedwithin the downwardly inwardly tapered fastener aperture in the supportbody, and (iv) a bottom flange that mates with the raised portion of theflashing plate around the fastener aperture; and (d) a fastener passingthrough the fastener apertures in the flashing plate, support body andfluid restrictor.
 28. The attachment system of claim 27, wherein the atleast one attachment feature formed in the upper mounting surface of thesupport body is a plurality of holes formed in the upper mountingsurface of the support body.
 29. The attachment system of claim 27,wherein the fluid restrictor has a frusto-conical shape.
 30. Theattachment system of claim 27, wherein rotating or advancing thefastener varies the amount of compression applied to the fastener by thefluid restrictor.
 31. The attachment system of claim 27, whereinrotating or advancing the fastener compresses the downwardly inwardlytapered portion of the fluid restrictor against the downwardly inwardlytapered portion of the fastener aperture in the support body to form atight seal between the fluid restrictor and the fastener aperture in thesupport body.
 32. The attachment system of claim 27, wherein rotating oradvancing the fastener compresses the bottom flange of the fluidrestrictor against the raised portion of the flashing plate to form atight seal between the fluid restrictor and the fastener aperture in theflashing plate.
 33. An attachment system for solar equipment,comprising: (a) a flashing plate having a raised portion with a fasteneraperture passing therethrough; (b) a support body with an upper mountingsurface having at least one attachment feature formed therein, and adownwardly inwardly tapered fastener aperture passing therethrough; (c)a fluid restrictor positioned between the flashing plate and the supportbody, the fluid restrictor having: (i) a fastener aperture passingtherethrough, and (ii) a downwardly inwardly tapered portion receivedwithin the downwardly inwardly tapered fastener aperture in the supportbody; and (d) a fastener passing through the fastener apertures in theflashing plate, support body and fluid restrictor, wherein advancing thefastener through the aperture in the fluid restrictor both: (i) tightlyseals the fluid restrictor around the fastener, and (ii) tightly sealsthe fluid restrictor into the fastener aperture in the support body. 34.The attachment system of claim 33, wherein the fluid restrictor furthercomprises: (ii) an upper annular ring positioned above the downwardlyinwardly tapered fastener aperture in the support body, and (iv) abottom flange that mates with the raised portion of the flashing platearound the fastener aperture.